NEWS RELEASE
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
777 N Tamiami Trl
Sarasota, FL 34236
For Immediate Release: 8/30/2015
Contact: Ryan McCarthy/Aimee Sicora/Chuck Stevens 941-955-7676
VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL ANNOUNCES STAR-STUDDED 2015-2016 SEASON
Sarasota, FL – Single tickets go ON SALE Saturday, September 12, at 10 AM at the Box Office, online, and
by phone! Appointments are available for ticket buyers by calling the Box Office at 941-953-3368.
Once again crowned as the #1 Performing Arts Hall of its size in North America (Venues Today, 2000
seat number category), and for the first time the #1 Tourist Destination in Sarasota County (Visit Sarasota
County), the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is proud to announce its 2015-2016 season full of fresh talent, and
sensational stars and returning favorites bound to inspire Sarasota with song, dance, and nonstop laughter!
Executive Director, Mary Bensel, on the diversity of the upcoming season; “We are absolutely thrilled to bring yet
another season full of the best shows on the road today. The hottest shows on Broadway, playing back to back
with the biggest recording artists in history, the funniest comedians, internationally acclaimed classical and dance
shows have primed us to have another excellent season. We also look forward to announcing the star of the Van
Wezel Foundation Gala, very soon!”
The stunning 2015-2016 lineup includes music sensations new to the hall: Emmy® and Tony® Awardwinner Kristin Chenoweth, Black Violin, Grammy® Award-winner Renée Fleming with the Sarasota
Orchestra, Straight No Chaser. Returning favorites Rick Springfield, Kenny G, Air Supply, Patti LaBelle,
Linda Eder, Vince Gill & Lyle Lovett, and Daryl Hall & John Oates, and The Ten Tenors promise to bring topnotch performances for fans of all genres. In a very special treat, spend An Evening with the exquisite
Academy® Award-winning actress Sophia Loren! Luminaries of the comedy world who are performing at the
Van Wezel for the first time include the lovably-dubbed “Queen of Mean,” Lisa Lampanelli, DL Hughley, Brian
Regan, Craig Ferguson, and Billy Gardell. The boisterous Lewis Black returns with his encore tour, The Rant
is Due: Part Deux. Other returning comedians include Carrot Top, Catskills on Broadway, and Paula
Poundstone.
The Broadway Season brings blockbuster shows of its own! From the creators of “South Park” and winner
of nine Tony Awards, The Book of Mormon will play a limited one-week engagement Feb. 9 thru Feb. 14. The
New York Times calls it "the best musical of this century" and Entertainment Weekly says it's "the funniest musical
of all time." Other Broadway hits include The Producers, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, and 42nd Street.
Returning tours include fond classics and new hits such as Bullets Over Broadway, Disney’s Beauty and the
Beast, Million Dollar Quartet, and Mamma Mia! The Classical Series features phenomenal talent from Joshua
Bell, The Czech National Symphony Orchestra, The Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, and Salute to
Vienna.
Wrapping up the Van Wezel’s collection of performances, we have a selection of dance shows designed to
entertain dance pros and novice fans alike. Moscow Festival Ballet returns with its full-length production of
Cinderella, followed by Joffrey Ballet’s performance of classical beauty and fresh twists. Fan favorite So You
Think You Can Dance returns, while Dancing With The Stars Live! and America’s Got Talent Live! make their
tour premieres in Sarasota.
2015-2016 Complete Season Lineup
The 2015-2016 season will be starting off with a beloved smash-hit Broadway musical, Disney’s Beauty
and the Beast (Oct 14)! Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping
spectacle has won the hearts of over 35 million people worldwide. This classic musical love story is filled with
unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including “Be Our Guest”
and the beloved title song. Following right on its heels will be singer-songwriter Rick Springfield and his rocking
Full Electric Band (Oct 15). For all of his accomplishments as an actor, best-selling author, and documentary
subject, Rick Springfield’s first love is musicCurrently co-starring opposite Meryl Streep on the big screne in Ricki
and the Flash and on TV in True Detective. Selling 25 million records and with 17 top-40 hits, including “Don’t Talk
to Strangers,” “An Affair of the Heart,” “I’ve Done Everything for You,” “Love Somebody” and the mega hit, “Jessie’s
Girl.” The twelfth-season Top 10 finalists of America’s favorite competitive dance television series, So You
Think You Can Dance (Oct 29) will perform the season’s most popular routines as well as original pieces created
specifically for the nationwide tour. Just announced, the Season 12 tour lineup includes the following Top 10
finalists: Team Stage’s Gaby Diaz, Edson Juarez, Jim Nowakowski, Hailee Payne and Derek Piquette; and Team
Street’s Megan “Megz” Alfonso, Eddie “Neptune” Eskridge, Virgil Gadson, Jessica “JJ” Rabone and Jana “Jaja”
Vankova.
November kicks off with another classic, the premiere of All Hands on Deck! (Nov 4), featuring four
sparkling Hollywood stars, accompanied by the Hollywood Victory Caravan Orchestra. Based on Bob Hope’s 1942
USO tour to the troops, All Hands on Deck! is a full-circle, patriotic salute to active duty and veteran members of
the Armed Services! The talent doesn’t end with Broadway tours. In fact, performers from across the country get the
chance to show their unique gifts when they appear on America’s Got Talent Live: The All-Stars Tour! (Nov 5).
The tour brings together some of the top performers from the hit TV show and serves up the home-grown talent
America has to offer! Up next is the side-splitting comedy tour, Lewis Black ~ The Rant is Due: Part Duex (Nov
13). A passionate performer who is more pissed-off optimist than mean-spirited curmudgeon, Lewis Black is the
rare comic who can cause people to laugh themselves into incontinence while making compelling points about the
absurdity of our world. Cirque Dreams ~ Holidaze (Nov 14) lights up the holidays with its all-in-one criticallyacclaimed new stage extravaganza, Broadway musical, and family Christmas spectacular! Hailed by The New York
Daily News as a “delicious confection of charm, sparkle and talent by the sleighload,” you will be able to witness
snowmen, penguins, angels, reindeer, toy soldiers, gingerbread men, ornaments and, of course, Santa! Sarasota
will be welcoming back Straight No Chaser (Nov 19), an a cappella phenomenon with a massive fanbase,
numerous TV appearances, and CD releases. Straight No Chaser comes to town on the heels of the release of
their new album “The New Old Fashioned” (available Oct 2015). Creedence Clearwater Revisited (Nov 21) brings
a blast of classic southern rock to the Van Wezel, featuring Stu Cook and Doug “Cosmo” Clifford, the Rock and Roll
Hall of Fame rhythm section (bass and drums respectively) from the legendary group Creedence Clearwater
Revival. Launched in 1995 to once again perform live Creedence Clearwater Revival music, this band performs up
to 100 shows a year and released the Platinum album Recollection. Come and hear the hits that were touchstones
of a generation, including “Bad Moon Rising,” “Fortunate Son,” “Down on the Corner,” and “Who’ll Stop the Rain?” A
cherished Sarasota holiday tradition, the Dave Koz Christmas Tour 2015 (Nov 27) returns with three friends: the
irrepressible Jonathan Butler, who has earned accolades in the R&B, contemporary jazz and gospel fields; Dutch
saxophone star Candy Dulfer, who performed the smash pop single “Lily Was Here”; and new to the tour the
legendary Bill Medley, who co-founded The Righteous Brothers with Bobby Hatfield.
Scottish-born Craig Ferguson (Dec. 1) has become a huge success on the North American comedy
circuit, having performed to sold-out theaters all over the country. He recently concluded his nine-year run as the
host of CBS’s The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, which set all-time viewer records and earned him a
Primetime Emmy nomination. Welcome back the Number-One-Selling Duo in music history! Daryl Hall & John
Oates (Dec 2) were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.Their impact can be heard everywhere
from boy-band harmonies, to neo-soul to rap-rock fusion. Well-known hits include “She’s Gone,” “Rich Girl,” “Kiss
on My List,” “Private Eyes,” “You Make My Dreams” and “Say It Isn’t So.” Grammy Award-winning saxophonist
Kenny G (Dec 3) has grafted elements of R&B, pop and Latin to a jazz foundation solidifying his reputation as the
premiere artist in contemporary jazz. His most recent album, Brazilian Nights, is a salute to bossa nova, featuring
Kenny’s performances of bossa nova classics as well as all newly-written originals. His return to the Van Wezel will
include well-loved standards, highlighted by moving and spirited holiday tunes. Experience an Irish Christmas with
Women of Ireland ~ Celtic Angels’ Christmas (Dec 10). This family show is a holiday celebration of Christmas in
Ireland presented in an inimitable fashion by some of Ireland’s finest female performers. Celebrate the many moods
of Christmas inspired by the beauty, power, and passion of the Women of Ireland. Becoming a pop culture icon is
a difficult thing to achieve, but Scott “Carrot Top” Thompson (Dec 12) has done just that. The trademark red locks
and the undeniably inventive use of props have vaulted him to the level that most comedians can only hope to
reach. He is now a Las Vegas icon as well, celebrating his tenth anniversary with the Luxor Resort and Casino. No
one is safe from the “King of Props” with his witty and infectious humor. Bowzer’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Holiday Party
(Dec 13) returns to the Van Wezel with the sounds of the season! Hosted by Bowzer, star of TV’s Sha Na Na for 14
years, the show features Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone (“I’m Into Something Good” “Mrs. Brown, You’ve
Got A Lovely Daughter,” “I’m Henry VIII, I Am,” “Silhouettes,” “Just A Little Bit Better,” “Wonderful World,” “There’s A
Kind of Hush”), and new this year Gary “U.S.” Bonds (“This Little Girl Is Mine,” “Out of Work,” “Jole Blon,”
“Daddy’s Come Home”.) Also on the bill are Rocky & the Rollers as well as Bowzer & The Stingrays. Delighting
audiences nationwide, A Christmas Carol (Dec 23) offers a unique version of Charles Dickens’ holiday novel. This
Victorian version of Christmas magic is presented with a full array of traditional Christmas carols interwoven with
the well-known story. Performed by a cast of 23 performers from the Nebraska Theatre Caravan on a set evoking
Currier and Ives prints and featuring special effects such as a spinning bed, this is a glorious holiday evening the
whole family can enjoy! Broadway hits the Van Wezel stage once more with the “boffo” hit, The Producers (Dec
30). This winner of a record twelve Tony Awards sets the standard for modern, outrageous, in-your-face humor! A
scheming producer and his mousy accountant aim to produce the biggest flop on Broadway in Mel Brooks’ classic
cult comedy. Polishing off 2015 is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most successful touring entertainment groups of
all time, The Ten Tenors (Dec 31). Join Australia’s rockstars with a special New Year’s Eve show as they amaze
and enthrall with traditional and contemporary seasonal favorites in Home for the Holidays: “Joy to the World,”
“Sleigh Ride,” “White Christmas,” “Amazing Grace” and many more!
Sarasota’s 20th annual Salute to Vienna (Jan 3) New Year’s Concert of uplifting Viennese music
captures a moment of ageless beauty. Sweeping melodies from operettas and Strauss waltzes will be performed
by European singers, costumed dancers and full orchestra. At the threshold of 2016, let soaring arias from Die
Fledermaus and Merry Widow along with the familiar strains of the Blue Danube whisk you off to a place of
nostalgia and pleasure. Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story (Jan 5 & 6) ... Now in its 25th amazing year, the
“World’s Most Successful Rock ‘n Roll Musical” continues to thrill audiences around the world. Buddy tells the
story of Buddy Holly through his short yet spectacular career and features the classic songs “Peggy Sue,”
“That’ll Be The Day,” “Not Fade Away,” “Oh Boy,” Ritchie Valens’ “La Bamba,” The Big Bopper’s “Chantilly Lace”
and many more! Following suit are classically-trained viola and violin players Wil B and Kev Marcus in Black
Violin (Jan 12). Their music is a blend of classical, hip-hop, rock, R&B, and even bluegrass. “Black Violin
works hard, but makes it all look like play. Sometimes they play with the intense seriousness of orchestral
soloists; at others they fiddle as if at a hoedown; at still others they strum the violin and viola like guitars.” – The
New York Times. If you liked Jim Witter’s first Piano Men performance, then you are going to love Jim Witter –
The Piano Men II (Jan 13). Jim Witter continues the fun of Piano Men, taking the music of Elton John and Billy
Joel on into the 80’s. The Juno/Dove nominee and his band will transport you to the time when big hair was cool
and when the Chevy Camaro was hot! This is a “must-see” musical journey and should be at the top of any Baby
Boomer’s bucket list! Celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Catskills on Broadway (Jan 14) with Sal Richards,
Freddie Roman and Dick Capri. Sit back, relax and get ready to enjoy a great evening of good old-fashioned
humor with an evening of pure fun and delight that will take you back to the golden years of the Catskills! Lisa
Lampanelli (Jan 15) will be making her Van Wezel debut as Comedy’s Lovable “Queen of Mean.” She is a
regular on Howard Stern’s radio shows, and she has appeared on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “Late
Show with David Letterman,” “Chelsea Lately,” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” Get ready to celebrate 40 years of hitmaking with Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock as Air Supply (Jan 16) comes to the Van Wezel. Known
for their hit songs “Lost in Love,” “All Out of Love,” “The One That You Love,” “Sweet Dreams,” and “Making
Love Out Of Nothing At All,” this is one of pop music’s most enduring powerhouse touring bands.
Joining his fans at the Van Wezel is the legendary singer/songwriter and one of the biggest teen idols of
the late 50’s, Paul Anka (Jan 17). With well over 500 songs to his credit, the most memorable being “Put Your
Head On My Shoulder,” “My Way,” and the famous theme from “The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson,”
Performing at the Van Wezel for the first time will be DL Hughley (Jan 18), one of the most popular and highlyrecognized standup comedians on the road today. He is known for being astute and politically savvy in true
comedian style, but is also unafraid to tap into his playful side: he participated in the 16th season of “Dancing
with the Stars.” The quintessential backstage musical comedy classic, 42nd Street (Jan 20 & 21), is the songand-dance fable of Broadway with an American Dream story. It includes familiar songs such as “We’re In the
Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off to Buffalo,” and, of course, the title song. This new production is
directed by Mark Bramble and choreographed by Randy Skinner, the team who staged the 2001 Tony AwardWinning Best Musical Revival. Come experience incomparable artistry as Wynonna & The Big Noise: Stories
& Song (Jan 24) take you on a musical journey. For Wynonna Judd, her stories have always been told through
music with one of the most influential and important voices of our generation. Delighting audiences of all ages
since 1999, Abba Mania (Jan 25) has toured the world in its quest to bring the music of the Swedish supergroup
to their millions of fans, old and new! From “Dancing Queen” to “Waterloo” to “Fernando,” you will be thrilled with
a full spectrum of ABBA’s uplifting, “dance-inducing” and sometimes heart-breaking ballads.
Renowned soprano Renée Fleming (Jan 27) makes her Van Wezel debut with the Sarasota
Orchestra in a concert of beloved songs and arias. The program of favorites will range from Italian opera and
classic song literature to Broadway, including music of Puccini, Rodgers and Hammerstein, and the American
Songbook. One of the most celebrated musical ambassadors of our time, Ms. Fleming is a four-time Grammy
winner and is known as the ‘Peoples’ Diva.’ She was awarded the National Medal of Arts, America’s highest
honor for an individual artist, in 2013. Her sumptuous voice, consummate artistry and compelling stage presence
will give you an evening to remember forever! This performance is brought to you in partnership with the
Sarasota Orchestra and the Van Wezel Foundation.
Following the 11th season of ABC’s hit show Dancing with the Stars, Dancing With The Stars: Live!
(Jan 29) is going back on the road and coming to Sarasota for its Van Wezel premiere. See your favorite
dancers in this one-of-a-kind action-packed live show with glamorous costumes and unbelievable dancing! Often
referred to as the “poet of the violin,” Joshua Bell (Jan 30) returns to the Van Wezel stage by popular demand!
He is one of the most celebrated violinists of his era: his stunning virtuosity, beautiful tone and charismatic stage
presence have brought him universal acclaim.
A legendary composer and live performer, Yanni (Feb 2) has brought hundreds of millions of fans and
fellow world citizens together via his concerts, with countless more experiencing the magic of his music through
television broadcasts. Be sure to catch this new North American Tour 2016, which launches at the Van Wezel!
Masters of Illusion (Feb 4), America’s largest touring magic show returns on their “Believe the Impossible”
tour! Nothing beats the experience of seeing a magic show in person. You will see grand illusions, levitating
women, appearances, vanishes, escapes, comedy magic, sleight of hand and beautiful dancers all rolled up into
one live show!
From the creators of “South Park” and winner of nine Tony Awards, The Book of Mormon will play a
limited one-week engagement Feb. 9 thru Feb. 14. The New York Times calls it "the best musical of this century"
and Entertainment Weekly says it's "the funniest musical of all time."
Back for its annual celebration of Broadway’s greatest songs, Neil Berg’s 107 Years of Broadway
(Feb 17) is a dazzling all-new show featuring five of Broadway’s finest stars performing songs from the best and
most-beloved Broadway musicals of the past! The Van Wezel will also be welcoming back Michael Feinstein
and his 17-Piece Band (Feb 18). Feinstein is a multi-platinum-selling, two-time Emmy and five-time Grammy
Award-nominated entertainer. Enjoy romantic classics by Gershwin, Porter, Berlin, Johnny Mercer and friends,
all in swing tempo, including “Night And Day,” “I Wanna Be Around,” “The Song Is You” and many others.
Philadelphia maven, Patti LaBelle (Feb 23) returns to the Van Wezel by popular demand to belt out her Soul
and R&B classics, pop hits, blues and spirituals – as only Ms. Patti can! The Moscow Festival Ballet was
founded in 1989 when legendary principal dancer of the Bolshoi Ballet Sergei Radchencko brought together the
highest classical elements of the great Bolshoi and Kirov Ballet companies in an independent new company
within the framework of Russian classic ballet. Cinderella (Feb 24), a full-length ballet, will delight the audience
with Prokofiev’s beautiful score and an abundance of entertaining dance and elegant costumes! The everpopular The Beach Boys (Feb 25) has tallied up dozens of hits and sold albums by the tens of millions, but the
greater significance lies in the fact that this band changed the musical landscape so profoundly that almost every
pop act since has drawn from their influence. Join Vince Gill and Lyle Lovett (Feb 26) as they perform together
on stage at the Van Wezel with an evening of songs and stories! Vince Gill, winner of 18 CMA Awards,
including Entertainer of the Year, made his name in traditional Country (“Victim of Life’s Circumstance,” “If It
Weren’t For Him” and “Oklahoma Borderline”). Singer, composer, and actor Lyle Lovett fuses elements of
Americana, swing, jazz, folk, gospel, and blues in his live performances. Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress
and singer, Kristin Chenoweth (Feb 27), making her Sarasota debut has a spectacular career that effortlessly
spans film, television, voiceover and stage. In her live show, the acclaimed star brings iconic songs from her
best-known shows like Wicked, Glee and On the Twentieth Century – as well as popular standards and classics
from Broadway, Hollywood and beyond! In her Van Wezel debut, Kristin promises a very fun evening with new
songs and some exciting surprises! It’s Saturday Night Fever every night with The Australian Bee Gees Show
– A Tribute to the Bee Gees (Feb 29). One of the most successful and adored acts in musical history is
recreated on stage in a multi-media concert event. Groove to their memorable music and immerse yourself in
the disco era with hits like “Stayin’ Alive,” “How Deep Is Your Love” and “Jive Talkin’.”
With acclaimed Cellist/Conductor Dmitry Yablonsky at the helm, The Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra (Mar 1)
performs a diverse repertoire which ranges from the Baroque and the Classical periods, through the Romantic
period and even extending to contemporary composers. The Symphony has partnered with many of the world’s
greatest musicians and continues that tradition with Yablonsky and Israeli teenage virtuoso Danielle Akta as the
guest soloist on the cello.
There are many Beatles tributes. But there’s only one show that celebrates the genius of Paul McCartney
at the height of his career in the mid-1970s, and this is it! Praised by Sid Bernstein – the promoter who brought the
original Beatles to North America – as “the best on the scene today,” The McCartney Years (Mar 2) is a note-fornote faithful recreation of a 1973 Wings over America concert. One of the most enduring shows of all time, Tim Rice
& Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (Mar 3 & 4) is the irresistible family
musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son. Directed and choreographed by Tony Awardwinner, Andy Blankenbuehler, this new production is a magical musical full of unforgettable songs, including “Go Go
Go Joseph,” “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.” Disney Fantasia Live in Concert (Mar 9) presents the
music and imagery from the legendary animated films, Fantasia and Fantasia 2000. Recreated by the Czech
National Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Ted Sperling, the breathtaking score takes on an astounding
new power as it is performed live in unison with the classic films displayed on the backdrop! The Joffrey Ballet
(Mar 10) is classically trained to the highest standards - proudly reflecting the diversity of America with its company
repertoire, which includes major story ballets, reconstructions of masterpieces and contemporary works. A beloved
dance story in a spectacular new production, Saturday Night Fever (Mar 16) is the coming-of-age tale of young
Tony Manero who learns the value of life in 1970’s Brooklyn. Based on the movie, Saturday Night Fever is packed
with legendary hits from the Bee Gees, including “Stayin’ Alive,” “Night Fever,” “Jive Talkin’” and “How Deep is Your
Love.” Debuting at the Van Wezel, spend St. Patrick’s Day with The Young Irelanders (Mar 17) comprised of eight
sensational performers who have Irish traditional music, song and dance running through their veins. Although still
in their 20’s and 30’s, these performers have achieved more than most people would aspire to in a lifetime!
Between them they have performed for many heads of state, at Radio City Music Hall, the Great Hall of the People
in China, Kremlin State Palace in Moscow and the US Capitol Building. The Peking Acrobats (Mar 20), China’s
most gifted tumblers, contortionists, jugglers, cyclists, and gymnasts, make a triumphant return to the Van Wezel
with their Gala 30th Anniversary North American Tour and Year of the Monkey Celebration! This year’s tour pulls
out all the stops, featuring exciting new acts and innovative twists on old favorites.
Hailed by Time magazine as “Musical Theatre Gold!” Bullets Over Broadway (Mar 21) is a hilarious
musical comedy about a young playwright who, in desperate need of financial backing for his next show, accepts an
offer he can’t refuse. Bullets Over Broadway is written by Woody Allen, with original direction and choreography
by Susan Stroman and based on the screenplay of the acclaimed film by Woody Allen and Douglas McGrath.
Looking for a non-traditional musical experience? Stomp (Mar 22) is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty and
utterly unique – an unforgettable experience for all ages. Come see what the noise is all about! The Irish Tenors’
(Mar 23) powerful vocal line-up of Finbar Wright, Anthony Kearns and Ronan Tynan are unquestionably the
leading brand of this genre. All three classically-trained singers have performed in leading concert halls across the
world. The original stars of the award-winning Broadway musical Jekyll & Hyde, Linda Eder and Robert Cuccioli
(Mar 24) reunite on the Van Wezel stage! Robert Cuccioli opens the show and then joins Linda Eder as they
perform showstoppers from Jekyll & Hyde and songs from both of their illustrious careers on and off Broadway.
The Midtown Men (Mar 25) are bringing their magic back to the Van Wezel, singing their favorite ”Sixties Hits” from
The Beatles, The Rascals, Motown, The Four Seasons and more! This sensational production reunites Four Stars
from the Original Cast of Broadway’s Jersey Boys. Tony Award-winner Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel
Reichard and Tony Award-nominee J. Robert Spencer star in this concert experience celebrating the music that
defined the ‘60s. Million Dollar Quartet (Mar 26) is the high voltage Tony Award-winning Broadway musical,
inspired by the true story of the famed recording session when icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis
and Carl Perkins were brought together for one unforgettable night. Synonymous with grace, beauty and artistry,
Oscar-winning actress Sophia Loren will captivate you with An Evening With Sophia Loren (Mar 31), featuring
an intimate onstage conversation and a question-and-answer session as well as film clips from her prolific career
spanning more than five decades. This legendary star earned a remarkable array of notable accolades including the
first Academy Award presented for a foreign-language film with Two Women.
Featuring hits from shows like Gypsy, 42nd Street, Damn Yankees, Guys and Dolls, Annie Get Your Gun
and West Side Story, Broadway! The Big Band Years (Apr 4) is a thrilling musical adventure! The Great White
Way was a magnificent platform for a staggering number of hit songs during the Big Band Era, including standards
like “The Lady is a Tramp,” “My Funny Valentine,” “Luck Be a Lady,” “I Got Rhythm” and “I Get a Kick Out of You.”
Returning by popular demand with an intimate live concert, trumpeter Chris Botti (Apr 5) will again thrill you with
his soaring musical imagination. The world’s largest-selling jazz instrumentalist, he’s equally at home playing a jazz
solo, an operatic piece or a pop standard. Nine-time Grammy Award-winner, singer, songwriter, and performer
Natalie Cole (Apr 10) rocketed to stardom in 1975 with her debut album, Inseparable, earning her a #1 single,
“This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” and two Grammy awards. With her latest Grammy-nominated album, Natalie
Cole En Español, she has re-emerged as one of the most beloved pop artists of the last 40 years. It promises to be
an “Unforgettable” evening! Celtic Nights ~ Spirit of Freedom (Apr 12) tells the story of Irish independence,
beginning 100 years ago with the Easter Rising. Akin to our 4th of July, the Easter Rising of 1916 created the
Ireland we know and love today. Thirty-two years ago, Paula Poundstone (Apr 17) climbed on a Greyhound bus
and traveled across the country -- stopping in at open-mic nights at comedy clubs as she went. What separates
Paula from the pack of comics working today and that has made her a legend is her ability to be spontaneous with a
crowd. The Boston Globe writes: “Poundstone can regale an audience for several hours with her distinctive brand of
wry, intelligent and witty comedy.” Mamma Mia! (Apr 19 & 20) is the ultimate feel-good show that has audiences
coming back again and again to relive the thrill. Now it’s your turn to have the time of your life at this smash-hit
musical that combines ABBA’s greatest hits, including “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.,” “Super Trouper,” “Take A
Chance on Me” and “The Winner Takes It All,” with an enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship. Enter the
world of Cirque Mechanics Pedal Punk (Apr 22), experience for the first time in Sarasota the excitement where
cycling is the way to escape the technology-obsessed society. Experience the excitement, artistry and thrill that
occurs when a wacky bike shop mechanic interacts with cyclists and bikes, and repairs more than broken pieces.
The New York Times calls it “exceptional, evocative, eye-catching and grossly entertaining…in a word, excellent.”
Welcome Brian Regan (Apr 23), the comedian who can turn mundane situations into side-splitting stand-up
material, as he makes his Sarasota debut! With 28 Late Show With David Letterman performances under his belt,
Brian has the perfect balance of sophisticated writing and physicality to fill theaters nationwide with fervent fans that
span generations. Billy Gardell (Apr 29) works hard. Not only is he the star of the hit CBS series Mike & Molly, he
is also hosting the new Monopoly Millionaires Club Game Show on ABC. His powerhouse stand-up show is
grounded and down-to-earth and hits a strong chord with audiences. The Irish music sensation, Celtic Woman
(Apr 30) brings its newest musical journey to Sarasota. Named Billboard Magazine’s #1 World Music Artist six
times, the all-female ensemble has sold over eight million albums with platinum sales in nine countries.
Also gracing the Van Wezel stage will be John Cleese & Eric Idle Together at Last…for the Very First
Time (Oct 2); the return of Shen Yun Symphony Orchestra (Oct 13); The Ultimate Doo-Wop Show (Oct 24);
and the Moscow Ballet: Great Russian Nutcracker (Dec 28).
The Van Wezel is also home to many groups including the Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Ballet, Ringling
Town Hall, the Sarasota Film Festival, and the Sarasota Concert Association, among others.
The Van Wezel offers Schooltime shows (for school and homeschool groups) including: Skippy Jon Jones
(Oct. 27); The American Revolution (Nov. 3); Doktor Kaboom! Live Wire! The Electricity Tour (Nov. 16);
Aesop Bops (Dec. 15); Black Violin (Jan. 12); Chicken Dance (Jan. 15); The Improvised Shakespeare
Company (Feb. 22); Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School (Apr. 27); and The Science of Pirates (May
10).
Variety Series Subscriptions are available by choosing 4 or more shows for up to a 20% discount (on most
shows and sections), while the Broadway Subscription and the Dance/Orchestra Subscription packages feature up
to a 20% discount on most shows. Regular hours for the Box Office will begin Tuesday, September 8th, as follows:
M-F 10-6; Sat. 10-4; open later hours on performance days, including Sundays. To accommodate our patrons, the
Box Office will have extended hours on Saturday and Sunday, remaining open from 10am-6pm on September 12th
and 13th. Discounts are available for Groups of 10 or more (some shows and sections are excluded). Join our Email Club at www.vanwezel.org to be the “first to know” about upcoming events and specials. Also, join the
conversation on our Facebook and Twitter to get behind the scenes pictures, interviews, and more! For more
information and to buy tickets, contact the Van Wezel Box office at (941) 953-3368 or log onto www.vanwezel.org.
Performers, prices, performances, dates and times are subject to change without notice. There are no ticket refu nds
or exchanges unless an event is cancelled or rescheduled.
NETworks presents DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Wed, Oct 14 • 2015 • 7:30PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
RICK SPRINGFIELD
Thur, Oct 15 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series and 107.9 WSRZ
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE
Thur, Oct 29 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series and Bright House Networks
ALL HANDS ON DECK! The Musical
Wed, Nov 4 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota
AMERICA’S GOT TALENT LIVE : The All-Stars Tour!
Thur, Nov 5 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series and Bright House Networks
LEWIS BLACK ~ The Rant is Due Part Deux
Fri, Nov 13 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Herald-Tribune Media Group’s Comedy Series
CIRQUE DREAMS ~ Holidaze
Sat, Nov 14 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Co-sponsored by Go Touch Down Travel and Tours
STRAIGHT NO CHASER ~
The New Old Fashioned Tour
Thur, Nov 19 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series and SRQ Media Group
CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVISITED
Sat, Nov 21 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Hotel Indigo
DAVE KOZ CHRISTMAS TOUR 2015
With Special Guests Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer & Bill Medley
Fri, Nov 27 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Boar’s Head Family Series and Scene Magazine
CRAIG FERGUSON: The New Deal Tour
Tue, Dec 1 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by AT&T and the Herald-Tribune Media Group’s Comedy Series
DARYL HALL & JOHN OATES
Wed, Dec 2 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by The Resort at Longboat Key Club
KENNY G
Thur, Dec 3 • 2015 • 8:00PM
WOMEN OF IRELAND ~ Celtic Angels’ Christmas
Thur, Dec 10 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Co-sponsored by Go Touch Down Travel and Tours
CARROT TOP
Sat, Dec 12 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Herald-Tribune Media Group’s Comedy Series
BOWZER’S ROCK & ROLL HOLIDAY PARTY
Featuring Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, Gary “U.S.” Bonds, Bowzer &
The Stingrays and Rocky & The Rollers
Sun, Dec 13 • 2015 • 7:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and SNN Suncoast News Network
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Wed, Dec 23 • 2015 • 7:00PM
Sponsored by the Boar’s Head Family Series & Bright House Networks
THE PRODUCERS
Wed, Dec 30 • 2015 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
THE TEN TENORS ~ Home for the Holidays
Thur, Dec 31 • 2015 • 7:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series
SALUTE TO VIENNA
Sun, Jan. 3 • 2016 • 7:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and WUSF Public Media
BUDDY – THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY
Tue & Wed, Jan 5 & 6 • 2016• 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
BLACK VIOLIN – ED Pick
Tues, Jan. 12 • 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series
JIM WITTER - THE PIANO MEN II
A Musical Journey Through the 80’s featuring
the Music of Elton John and Billy Joel
Wed, Jan. 13 • 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota
CATSKILLS ON BROADWAY
Thur, Jan. 14 • 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and Herald-Tribune Media Group’s Comedy Series
LISA LAMPANELLI
Fri, Jan. 15 • 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Herald-Tribune Media Group’s Comedy Series
AIR SUPPLY
Sat, Jan. 16 • 2016 • 8:00PM
PAUL ANKA
Sun, Jan. 17 • 2016 • 7:00PM
Sponsored by Morton’s Gourmet Market and Catering
DL HUGHLEY
Mon, Jan. 18 • 2016 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Herald-Tribune Media Group’s Comedy Series
42ND STREET
Wed & Thur, Jan. 20 & 21 • 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
WYNONNA & THE BIG NOISE: Stories & Song
Sun, Jan 24• 2016 • 7:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series
ABBA MANIA
Mon, Jan. 25 • 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Beneva Flowers
RENÉE FLEMING
with the SARASOTA ORCHESTRA • ANU TALI, CONDUCTOR
Wed, Jan 27 • 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series
DANCING WITH THE STARS: LIVE!
Fri, Jan. 29• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series and Bright House Networks
JOSHUA BELL
Sat, Jan. 30• 2016 • 8:00PM
Co-sponsored by Go Touch Down Travel & Tours & Hyatt Regency Sarasota and sponsored by WUSF
Public Media
YANNI
Tue, Feb 2•2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Michael’s on East and Gateway Bank
MASTERS OF ILLUSION ~ Believe the Impossible
Thur, Feb 4•2016 • 7:30PM
Sponsored by the Boar’s Head Family Series and The Bradenton Herald
THE BOOK OF MORMON
Feb 9-14• 2016
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
NEIL BERG’S 107 YEARS OF BROADWAY
Wed, Feb 17• 2016 • 2:00 & 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
MICHAEL FEINSTEIN and his 17-Piece Band
Swing Me A Love Song
Thur, Feb 18• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series and Sarasota Magazine
PATTI LaBELLE
Tue, Feb 23•2016 • 8:00PM
Co-sponsored by Hyatt Regency Sarasota
MOSCOW FESTIVAL BALLET ~ CINDERELLA
Wed, Feb 24• 2016 • 7:00PM
Sponsored by The Fine Arts Society of Sarasota and Bright House Networks
THE BEACH BOYS
Thur, Feb 25 • 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series and SNN Suncoast News Network
VINCE GILL & LYLE LOVETT
Fri, Feb 26• 2016 • 7:30PM
Sponsored by Rotary Club of Sarasota Bay
KRISTIN CHENOWETH
Coming Home Tour
Sat, Feb 27• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the AT&T Star Series and Sarasota Magazine
THE AUSTRALIAN BEE GEES SHOW
A Tribute to the Bee Gees
Mon, Feb 29• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota
THE JERUSALEM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Tue, Mar 1• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and WUSF Public Media
THE McCARTNEY YEARS
Wed, Mar 2• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by The Pittsburgh Pirates/The Bradenton Marauders
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT
Thur & Fri, Mar 3 & 4• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
DISNEY FANTASIA LIVE IN CONCERT
CZECH NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Wed, Mar 9• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series and WUSF Public Media
JOFFREY BALLET
Thur, Mar 10• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Van Wezel Foundation Series and WEDU PBS
SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER
Wed, Mar 16• 2016 • 3:00 & 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
THE YOUNG IRELANDERS
Thur, Mar 17• 2016 • 8:00PM
THE PEKING ACROBATS
30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR
Sun, Mar 20• 2016 • 7:00PM
Co-sponsored by Hyatt Regency Sarasota
BULLETS OVER BROADWAY
Mon, Mar 21• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
STOMP
Tue, Mar 22• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
THE IRISH TENORS
Wed, Mar 23• 2016 • 8:00PM
LINDA EDER with ROBERT CUCCIOLI
Thur, Mar 24• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
THE MIDTOWN MEN
4 STARS FROM THE ORIGINAL CAST
OF BROADWAY’S JERSEY BOYS!
Fri, Mar 25• 2016 • 8:00PM
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET
Sat, Mar 26• 2016 • 2:00 & 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
AN EVENING WITH SOPHIA LOREN
Thur, Mar 31• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by The Van Wezel Foundation Series
BROADWAY! THE BIG BAND YEARS
Mon, Apr 4• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
CHRIS BOTTI
Tues, Apr 5• 2016 • 8:00PM
NATALIE COLE
Sun, Apr 10 • 2016 • 7:00PM
Sponsored by The Van Wezel Foundation Series and WEDU PBS
CELTIC NIGHTS ~ Spirit Of Freedom
Tues, Apr 12• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and WUSF Public Media
PAULA POUNDSTONE
Sun, Apr 17• 2016 • 7:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and The Herald-Tribune Media Group’s Comedy Series
MAMMA MIA!
Tue & Wed, Apr 19 & 20• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota and ABC7
CIRQUE MECHANICS PEDAL PUNK
Fri, Apr 22• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by the Boar’s Head Family Series
BRIAN REGAN
Sat, Apr 23• 2016 • 8:00PM
Sponsored by The Herald-Tribune Media Group’s Comedy Series
BILLY GARDELL
Fri, Apr 29 • 2016 • 8:00PM
SPONSORED BY SNN SUNCOAST NEWS NETWORK
CELTIC WOMAN
Sat, Apr 30• 2016 • 7:30PM
Sponsored by Argosy University
RENTALS
JOHN CLEESE & ERIC IDLE
Together Again at Last...For The Very First Time
Fri, Oct 2• 2015 • 7:30PM
SHEN YUN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Tue, Oct 13• 2015 • 7:30PM
THE ULTIMATE DOO-WOP SHOW
Sat, Oct 24• 2015 • 8:00PM